Defrosting Nederland

Back in town, a good bet for lunch is the Indian and Nepalese buffet stocked with vibrantly spiced curries at Kathmandu Restaurant ($; 110 N. Jefferson; 303/258-1169), which should get you fired up for a little local shopping. Start nearby at Off Her Rocker Antiques (4 E. First St.; 303/258-7976), a creaky, 109-year-old building filled with furniture, glassware, estate jewelry, and collectible pottery. Another good stop is Denim & Lace Boutique (211 State 119 S.; 303/258-9777), a women's shop overflowing with romantic clothing, funky jewelry, and unique gifts.

Before heading home, stop at Happy Trails/Cool Beans (101 State 119 S.; 303/258-3435), a cozy coffeehouse that rents cross-country skis ($20) and snowshoes ($10) and is also a bike shop. It's housed in a restored 1906 Pullman train car, and its steaming lattes will warm up (almost) anybody.